MBRS Visits Bharalumukh Missionaries of Charity, Guwahati, for “Mutthi Bhar Anaaj Yojana 3.0” – an initiative by AFS Intercultural Programs

Introduction

On 23rd November 2024, a team of 23 students from Miles Bronson Residential School embarked on a life-changing visit to the Bharalumukh Missionaries of Charity in Guwahati. This initiative was part of the American Field Service’s (AFS) “Mutthi Bhar Anaaj Yojana: 3.0 – A Handful of Grains” campaign to support communities in need.

The Missionaries of Charity, lovingly referred to as Bharalumukh, provides care and shelter to abandoned individuals, orphaned children, and patients requiring medical attention. This initiative aligned with AFS India’s vision of fostering empathy and cultural understanding among students, creating impactful experiences while celebrating AFS India’s 19th anniversary.

The Visit

Upon their arrival, the students were confronted with the stark realities of life. Witnessing the struggles faced by the residents was a deeply emotional experience. Despite their hardships, the residents greeted the students with warmth and shared stories of resilience and hope.

The students performed songs, including the Miles Bronson school anthem, “Hail Ho the Bronsainans,” and a touching rendition of “Jee Le Zara.” These performances brought smiles to the residents’ faces and fostered a heartwarming connection. One resident, battling a leg injury, even performed a dance, symbolizing the indomitable spirit of human perseverance.

Student Reflections

The visit left a lasting impression on the students. Here are some of their reflections :

Mauli (Class VIII) : She was deeply moved by the story of a young woman who had been abandoned. Inspired, she expressed a desire to dedicate her efforts to improving the lives of women in need.

Laurence Langthasa (Class VII) : Seeing children without parental care was heart-wrenching for her. She vowed to cherish her family more and appreciate their presence in her life.

Shanvi (Class IX) : She found the residents’ enthusiasm and eagerness to interact inspiring. The visit reinforced her belief in the transformative power of small acts of kindness.

Jugasmita (Class IX) : She realized the significance of small contributions, noting that collective efforts could create meaningful change. She pledged to encourage others to contribute to such causes.

Ek Mutthi Abhiyan

As part of the “Mutthi Bhar Anaaj Yojana: 3.0,” the students distributed dry rations to the residents, contributing to the mission’s ongoing efforts. Though modest, this act of generosity symbolized the beginning of a deeper commitment to supporting the community. Students pledged to return with more substantial contributions in the future.

Conclusion

The visit to Bharalumukh Missionaries of Charity was a profoundly humbling experience, leaving the students with a renewed sense of empathy, compassion, and purpose. The initiative emphasized the importance of human connection and the transformative power of small acts of kindness.

We extend heartfelt gratitude to AFS India, Dr. Nripen Dutta (Reverend Founder and Principal), Nandani Dutta (Secretary), and Henaa Duttaa (Director – Management) for providing this opportunity. This visit reaffirmed the school’s commitment to fostering meaningful community engagement.

Participants

Class IX

1. Akshita Sarmah
2. Alisha Tamui
3. Kuldeepa Narzary
4. Afrin Ahmed
5. Ishita Singh
6. Barsha Thakuria

Class VIII

7. Shanvi Chakraborty
8. Niharika Borah
9. Jugasmita Kalita
10. Mauli
11. Debanjana Das

Class VII

12. Dem-i-mon Pakma
13. Guangthui Kamei
14. Iwisha Kshetrimayam
15. Khushbu Khundrakpam
16. Thursimi Lekthepi
17. Gideon Thounaojam
18. Kumlex Nalo
19. Aditya Sharma
20. Nangram Thugh
21. Bijinam Tasin
22. Dhasel Wangmu Sunickjee
23. Kelcia Konthoujam
24. Jiya DiRa Sinha
25. Laurene Langthasa
26. Rasmita Roy

Mutthi Bhar Anaaj 3.0 – Celebrating 19 Years of AFS India

This initiative is part of the American Field Service’s ongoing mission to foster intercultural exchange, community service, and social responsibility. We look forward to continuing our support for the Bharalumukh Missionaries of Charity and similar causes in the future.